Homes in Harrow could get cheaper energy

Harrow residents could benefit from savings on their energy costs this winter by taking part in the Big London Energy Switch. The scheme helps those that join to find a better tariff and as a result enjoy potentially massive savings on their fuel costs, a particularly important factor now that winter is on its way.

The next auction for the switch will take place on October 16th and registration is now open for those residents that wish to join. The auction enables energy providers to offer different rates for gas and electric contracts. Companies bid against each other in order to offer the best deal. The different tariffs that are offered are determined by the amount of energy currently being used by the households that register for the scheme.

Two previous switching schemes have run this year, one in April and the other in June, and proved to be very successful. A total of 30,000 people throughout the City of London signed up, with 2,500 of those living in the borough of Harrow. For both of the previous auctions, households saved over £100 on average.

Harrow Council is hoping the scheme will enable vulnerable residents to benefit from cheap heating costs and to reduce the levels of fuel poverty as more energy is needed to keep homes warm this winter. Of those who signed up to April's scheme, 29 per cent had a disability or long term illness and 19 per cent were receiving benefits. Almost half of the homes also had elderly people in residence.

Councillor Thaya Idaikkadar, leader of Harrow Council, said: "The Big London Energy Switch is a simple and effective way to get a better deal on your energy bill. Together we have the power to cut our bills with winter round the corner and at a time when the energy companies are putting prices up.

"The more people that sign up, the better deal we can get for Harrow residents so it’s in everyone’s interests to take part."

Published 3rd September, 2013

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